Obama signs law renaming post office after singer Steve Goodman

WASHINGTON — A day before he heads home, President Barack Obama on Tuesday signed into law a bill to rename a Chicago post office for legendary folk singer Steve Goodman.

Goodman died in 1984 at 36 after a long battle with leukemia. He had penned hits including "City of New Orleans" and local anthems such as "Lincoln Park Pirates" and "Go, Cubs, Go." His ashes were scattered at Wrigley Field.

Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill., in March introduced a measure to have the Lakeview post office, 1343 W. Irving Park Road, renamed for Goodman. The lawmaker had the support of every House member from Illinois, the Old Town School of Folk Music and musicians including John Prine, Bonnie Koloc and Corky Siegel.

Quigley spokesman Ben Strauss said Tuesday that the lawmaker was pleased at the bill becoming law. He quoted Quigley as saying: "While most Chicagoans know him for the song we sing after every Cubs win, Steve Goodman's contributions reach far beyond the ivy-covered walls of Wrigley."

According to Strauss, a musical celebration involving the Old Town School of Folk Music will mark the renaming--once a new plaque arrives. "It takes anywhere from between six and eight weeks," he said. Obama, who turns 49 on Wednesday, returns to Chicago for a Ford plant tour and political fundraisers.